How to View a Torrent

In the computing world, Torrents do not only represent the fastest but also the latest method of software and content distribution over the Internet involving numerous users allowing for simultaneous downloading form multiple sources. Traditional distribution and sharing methods were founded on the client-server architecture wherein a file requested is stored in one machine and the user has to access this machine in order to download a single file using either FTP or HTTP communication protocols. This type of file sharing and distribution process is not only slow but also puts unnecessary strain to the resources of a single computer server catering to possibly millions of request along with the task of controlling both inbound and outbound network traffic. By using Torrent files, the user simply requests for a specific file from a host server and all the available users currently sharing the requested file can be contacted via the Internet using the Torrent client to retrieve bits and pieces from various sources allowing for faster completion and less strain on the hosting machines.

In order to view Torrent files, it is necessary to have a Torrent client installed. Open the Web browser and download a Torrent client from the Internet. BitTorrent is currently one of the more popularly used Torrent clients although several variants have been introduced recently.

Step 2

After completing the download process, install the Torrent client. Since this software will need access to the Internet connection, it is necessary to include it in the Exceptions List of the Windows Firewall service.

Step 3

Click on the 'Start' button and select the 'Control Panel' option.

Step 4

In the Control Panel window, click on the 'Security Center' category and choose Windows Firewall.

Step 5

Click on the 'Exceptions' tab and select the 'Add Program' button. This will include the Torrent client to the list of programs allowed to access the Internet. For users using a different Firewall service, refer to the documentation of the software on how to allow a program access to the Internet.

Step 6

Make sure also that the anti-virus program running on the machine does not detect the Torrent client as a false positive. Follow the necessary steps outlined in the security program to prevent it from tagging the Torrent client as a threat.

Step 7

Once the Torrent client has been installed and declared as a legitimate application to all security protocols, launch it.

Step 8

This will display the work screen where all downloads will be reflected. The easiest way to download Torrent files is to visit host websites like Sumo Torrent, Minnova, and others from your Web browser.

Step 9

Clicking on the 'Download Torrent' option from these host sites will download the Torrent file into the machine and automatically open the Torrent client. This will now reflect the information stored in the Torrent file like file size, number of seeders, leechers, and other relevant data about the file being downloaded.

Step 10

Once the file has been completely downloaded into the local machine, the Torrent client will prompt the user. If this is a video file, it can now be watched directly from the machine or burned onto a DVD media for playback on standalone devices.